Donna Shalala chosen to receive esteemed Beacon Council award

University of Miami president Donna E. Shalala has been chosen to receive the esteemed 2012 Jay Malina Award, the highest honor bestowed annually by The Beacon Council, Miami-Dade County’s official economic partnership. It is presented to a community executive whose leadership has contributed greatly to the prosperity of Miami- Dade’s economy.

The award will be presented to Shalala at the 10th Annual Beacon Awards at the new Miami Marlins Ballpark on Apr. 25. The Jay Malina Award embodies the qualities of community commitment, global leadership in education, and economic impact in the community. Shalala is the first female recipient of the prestigious award.

The Beacon Awards also will recognize businesses and organizations for their significant contributions to the local economy in their respective industries — such as Aviation, Business Services, Creative Design (Fashion- Lifestyle, Film & Entertainment), Financial Services, Healthcare Services, Information Technology/Telecommunications, International Commerce/Multinational Corporations, Life Sciences, and the Visitor Industry.

More than 700 top business and community leaders will be in attendance. For tickets, visit online at www.beaconcouncil.com.

“I am honored to be chosen as a recipient for the Beacon Council’s Jay Malina Award,” Shalala said. “Over the past decade, the University of Miami has positioned itself as an economic engine and community resource that fosters entrepreneurship, innovation, and educates thousands of young people who can succeed in our evolving global economy.”

During Shalala’s tenure, UM has solidified its position among top U.S. research universities. Among her accomplishments, in her 10 years at UM, are fundraising, driving diversity, and promoting job creation in Miami- Dade County.

“We are particularly pleased that the judges, who are all past chairs of the Beacon Council, have chosen her for the highest award we have and have recognized her for what she has done for this community,” said Alan Becker, chair of the Beacon Council. “She has helped us market Miami to the business world, both nationally and internationally. Her leadership has led the University of Miami to graduate an educated, skilled workforce necessary in today’s changing business world and her vision has led to the university’s new Life Science and Technology Park. It will be a valuable resource in the growth of future industries and medical research for decades to come.”

For more information about the University of Miami visit online at www.miami.edu.